Placement Testing
Before enrolling in math and English classes, students must take the math and English placement tests.
Placement Test Schedule
See hours posted on home page.
Placement Exams must be taken before Registration.
To ensure that students are placed at the proper course level, prospective students are required to take placement examinations before enrolling in English and mathematics courses. Exams are given at The Learning Center in the Egan Library. Students must allow 2 hours to complete the English and reading test. The math test takes approximately 1 hour. Tests for some Computer Information and Office Systems courses are also available at The Learning Center. A copy of the Placement Test results will be given to the prospective student and also forwarded to advisors.
Placement exams will be given by appointment only. Contact The Learning Center to make an appointment.For more information or if you need to make special arrangements such as an evening test time please call 796-6348.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of placement tests?
To ensure enrollment in courses consistent with your ability and experience.
Who must take the tests?
All entering freshmen and transfer students who have not completed freshmen composition and mathematics requirements for their program will need to take English and math placement tests prior to registering. In addition, students who are confident in their computer skills and would like to skip the beginning computer classes will need to take a computer placement test before they can register for more advanced courses.
Where and when do I take the tests in Juneau?
Tests are administered at the
Learning Center, located on the lower level of Egan Library. Special hours are in effect during summer sessions and registration periods. For details, please call 796-6348 or see the
current PT schedule.
How much time would I need?
If you are taking both English and math placement tests, you should plan to spend about 2.5 hours (see specific test info for more details). The times for computer tests vary depending on the level of test.
How do I get the results?
The results are available in two business days. You can contact the Learning Center or get your scores from your
advisor at the Student Resource Center. If you took the test before arriving in Juneau, your results will be available in two business days from the time we receive the test in the mail. If you chose the online testing option, your math and CIOS results will be available immediately, while your English placement will be available in two business days.
Can I retake placement tests?
If your are not satisfied with you placement, we offer an option of retaking your math or English placement test for a charge of $10. You will have to wait at least a week before retaking the test. Computer placement exams can not be repeated for one semester.
Will I get credit for the courses I test out of?
No. Passing a placement test will only allow you to skip a course and move on to a higher level, but will not award you credit. If you are interested in officially challenging a course for credit, see the
University Catalog or your advisor.
Off campus testing
Can I take the test before arriving in Juneau?
Students taking the placement test outside of Juneau need to find a proctor who can monitor the testing. The following definition of the designated proctor will be used:
Designated proctor must be affiliated with an educational institution such as a university, school, or library and must have a verifiable work address and phone number. In towns where no professional educators are available, other community leaders (e.g., ministers) can serve as test supervisors if approved by the UAS Learning Center. All tests must be administered in a professional setting. Proctors cannot be prospective UAS students or related to the test-taker.
The proctor and you will need to fill out the
UAS Placement Test Administration Agreement (PDF | 18Kb) and fax or mail it to the Learning Center.
If the institution your proctor is affiliated with has access to the World Wide Web, s/he can arrange for you to take the placement test online. Otherwise, upon receipt of the completed Administration Agreement form, test materials and instructions will be sent to the proctor. In both cases, you will need to make an appointment with your proctor to complete the examination. If you choose to test online, your math and CIOS results will be available to you immediately.
Back to the top
What's On the Math Test?
Students need to take a mathematics placement test before they can register for any math class. Before the test, they will be asked about their last formal math class and will be given a math test at a level corresponding with their experience. Math tests are not timed; calculators are allowed but not provided. Most students can finish the test within an hour. If your score is too high or too low, you will be advised to take a different level test to ensure a more accurate placement.
The online math test consists of five multiple-choice units of ten questions each. In order to pass a unit, examinee needs to answer 60% of the test correctly. Those who score 90% or above will be asked to continue with the next unit. Those who score below 60% will be asked to attempt a lower unit.
- Arithmetic Skills unit: This unit is for individuals with little or no math experience.
-
If your score is... your placement is...
50% or lower
Math 054
60% or higher
Math 055
This unit covers the following topics: Fractions (reduced form, mixed, addition and multiplication of, decimal representation of); order of operations; negatives; squareroots; averages; area of a rectangle; simple linear equations; percentages.
Sample questions may include:
1. Perform the following operations: -5[2-(-9)]+4
2. What is 26% of 200?
3. Perform the following operation. Write your answer in reduced form: 3/4+5/11
Click
here for an Arithmetic Skills review.
Geometric and Other Formulas
- Basic Algebra Skills unit: This unit is for individuals with 1 year of high school algebra.
-
If your score is... your placement is...
50% or lower Need to take the previous unit
60% or higher
Math 105
This unit covers the following topics: solving for a variable; factoring and simplifying; multiplying polynomials; solving simple inequalities; Pythagorean theorem; finding x- and y-intercepts of linear equations; rules of exponents.
Sample questions may include:
1. Simplify: x 2-(x-2) 2 2. Find x-and y-intercepts: 6x-8y=1
3. Simplify: 4. Solve for P: 1/P=N+(N*K)/(2*P)
Click
here for a Basic Algebra Skills review.
Geometric and Other Formulas
- Intermediate Algebra Skills unit: This unit is for individuals with 1.5 years of high school algebra.
-
If your score is... your placement is...
50% or lower Need to take the previous unit
60% or higher
Math 107
This unit covers the following topics: addition of fractions containing variables; rules of exponents; expressions involving squareroots; solving for a specified variable; solving systems of equations; finding equations of lines; Pythagorean theorem; solving equations by factoring.
Sample questions may include:
1. Solve for N: B+M*N=(N-2)(1-M) 2. Solve the system of equations: 3x+10y=-9
5x+2y=1
3. Simplify:
4. Find the diagonal of a square whose area is 36 sq units.
- College Algebra Skills unit: This unit is for individuals with 2 years of high school algebra.
-
If your score is... your placement is...
50% or lower Need to take the previous unit
60% or higher
Math 108
This unit covers the following topics: rules of logarithms and exponents; distance-rate problems; composition of functions; solving quadratic equations and inequalities; domain and range of a function; areas of geometric figures; evaluating functions; percentages.
Sample questions may include:
1. Solve for x: log 2(6-4x)=1
2. Juliet jogs to school and walks home in 5 hours. If she jogs at 6 mph and walks at 4 mph, how long does it take her to jog to school?
3. If f(x)=x 2+2x+3 and g(x)=(x+1) 1/2 find f(g(x)) and g(f(x)).
4. If a circle is inscribed in a square with side a, express its radius as a function of a.
- Precalculus unit: This unit is for individuals with over 2 years of high school algebra and trigonometry and/or precalculus.
-
If your score is... your placement is...
50% or lower Need to take the previous unit
60% or higher
Math 200
This unit covers the following topics: negative exponents; trigonometric functions of angles; word problems involving trigonometric functions; angular and linear speed; inverse trigonometric functions; equalities containing absolute values; compositions of functions; trigonometric identities.
Sample questions may include:
1. f(x)=x 3, g(x)=2x 2+5x-3. Find the domain of f(g(x)) and of g(f(x))
2. If sin(x)=-1/3, and x is in the III quadrant, find the values of the other 5 trigonometric functions.
3. Simplify: (sin 4x-cos 4x)/(sin 2x-cos 2x)
4. In a circle of 5m radius, how long is an arc associated with an angle of 2.1 radians? How many revolutions is an angle of 2.1 radians?
Math Placements
Student scores result in placement in one of the following courses:
Math 054: Preparatory Mathematics (3 credits)
Review of concepts necessary for a course in algebra fundamentals. Topics include operations with whole numbers, fractions, decimals, ratios, and negative numbers. Prerequisite: placement test.
Math 055: Fundamentals of Algebra (4 credits)
Introduction to elementary concepts, notations, processes, and applications of algebra. Topics include real numbers, writing and evaluating algebraic expressions, polynomials, factoring, rational forms, graphing, radicals, linear and quadratic equations, inequalities, and problem solving. Prerequisite: placement test or Math 054.
Math 105: Intermediate Algebra (4 credits)
Study of equations and inequalities, polynomials, rational expressions, exponents, radical expressions, second degree equations and inequalities and their graphs, systems of linear equations, functions, exponential and logarithmic functions. Course is taught with the TI-82 graphing calculator. Prerequisite: placement test or Math 055.
Math 107: College Algebra (4 credits)
A detailed study of equations and inequalities, coordinates and graphs, polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, systems of equations, matrices, sequences and series, and applications. Course is taught with TI-82 graphing calculator. Prerequisiste: placement test or Math 105.
Math 108: Trigonometry (3 credits)
Course covers plane trigonometric functions, negative angles, solving right triangles, solving oblique triangles, graphs of the trigonometric functions, and DeMoivre's theorem. A graphic calculator or math software will be used. Prerequisite: placement test or Math 107.
Math 131: Concepts and Applications of Contemporary Mathematics (4 credits)
Concepts and applications of contemporary mathematics, including the study of the mathematics of social choice, management science, growth and symmetry, and statistics and probability. Prerequisite: Math 105.
Math 200: Calculus I
Review of functions, limits of functions, continuity, derivatives of algebraic and trigonometric functions, implicit differentiation, graphing techniques, differentials, Newton's Method, basic integration, definite integral, and applications of differentiation and integration. A graphing calculator or math software will be used in teaching this course. Prerequisite: Math 108 or placement test.
Please see Catalog 2001-2002 Math Course Descriptions for a full listing of mathematics courses.
Back to the top
What's On the English Test?
You need to take an English placement test before you can register for any English class. During this test, you will be asked to produce a short (1-2 pages) writing sample in response to a question prompt. You will have 1 hour to do so; if English is not your first language, your test is untimed.
Your writing placement will be based on the quality of your essay and on your understanding and intergration of the reading material. In addition, if you place in
English 110 or higher, you will be recommended to take
Humanities 120, a GER (general education requirement) course designed for first-year students that looks at Alaska and wilderness from several worldviews. If you place in
English 061, you will be recommended to also take
Humanities 105, a course designed to help you build reading and critical thinking skills.
English Placements
Student scores result in placement in one or more of the following courses:
Referral
Test score was non-qualifying and student was not placed in a course. In some instances, the student is referred to the Juneau Adult Education Center for assistance in building skills.
Engl 061: Improving Writing Skills (4 credits)
Students will write numerous short essays and will learn how to edit their work. Writing fluency will be stressed. Punctuation and sentence structure skills will receive special attention. Students will build a portfolio of their writing for assessment. Prerequisite: English placement test.
Engl 110: Basic Writing (4 credits)
This course focuses on the basics of writing, including control of basic grammar and punctuation. Through frequent writing and revision, students develop a portfolio of essays that is submitted to a review panel for assessment at midterm and the end of the semester. The course does not satisfy the GER communication requirement. May be repeated once for credit, but only applicable for degree credit once. Prerequisite: Eng 061 or placement test.
Engl 111: Methods of Written Communication (3 credits)
Instruction is on techniques of essay organization and development, research, and analytical reading and writing. A critical analysis and research paper are required. Students will build a portfolio of their writing for assessment. Prerequisite: English 110 or placement test.
Engl 193P: ST: English As a Second Language (3 credits)
ESL students build skills in written and spoken English based on individual need. Requires reading and writing outside class. Technology supplements activities. May be repeated for credit with instructor permission.
Hum 105: Critical Reading in the Humanities (3 credits)
Provides a range of readings in the humanities, and strategies for interpreting, analyzing, and synthesizing written texts. Extensive reading and response via oral, written, and other creative methods. A reading research project is required. Course may be selected by student or required by English placement test scores.
Hum 120: A Sense of Place: Alaska and Beyond (3 credits)
Through a series of Alaska-based readings, exercises, presentations, and discussions, students will explore a variety of issues in the humanities and social sciences and relate those ideas to the contemporary human condition, ranging from the personal to the universal. Also examines the roles of critical thinking, ethics, information technology, communication, and quantitative reasoning as fundamental components of an education and as tools for survival in modern society.
Please see Catalog 2004-2005 English course descriptions for a full listing of courses.
Back to the top
What's on the CIOS Test?
Computer Information Office Systems Placement Exams
The Computer Information Office Systems (CIOS) Placement Exam is available online for students living near a UAS campus or in an outreach community with an outreach coordinator. The exam is administered and proctored by the local campus learning center or outreach coordinator. Students living in other areas will need to make arrangements with the UAS Sitka Campus
Instructional Services/Distance Education Office (800-478-6653, Ext. 721 or 757) to take the written exam with a proctor.
The CIOS Placement Exam tests a student's knowledge and understanding of vocabulary and basic concepts in six areas: Basic Computing, Keyboarding, Basic Windows, Basic Word Processing, Basic Spreadsheets, and Internet Basics. The number and specific
section(s) a student will complete depends on their academic goals. Students and advisors will use the
CIOS Placement Exam Advising Sheet to identify the appropriate exams.
The Exam is divided into 6 separate quizzes. The individual test scores will determine if a student needs to enroll in a specific course.
PART A:
Basic Computing Quiz:
The Part A exam covers the following topics: computer input and output devices; storage devices; program and data files; system and application software; email; files (open, name, save/save as, print a file; and your familiarity with windows, menus, and dialog boxes.
A student needs to enroll in CIOS 100 with a test score less than 70% (21/30)
PART B:
Keyboarding Quiz:
Part B tests your typing speed and accuracy.
A student needs to enroll in CIOS 101A with a test score less than 70% (21/30).
PART C:
Basic Windows Quiz:
The Part C exam covers the following topics: windows desktop controls; program windows
controls; folders and files; customizing Windows; and using OLE features.
A student needs to enroll in CIOS 110A with a test score less than 70% (21/30).
PART D:
Basic Word Processing Quiz:
The Part D exam covers the following topics: word processor screen elements; editing and
formatting documents such as letters, multiple-page reports and newsletters.
A student needs to enroll in CIOS 130 with a test score less than 70% (21/30).
PART E:
Basic Spreadsheet Quiz:
The Part E exam covers the following topics: Excel screen elements; editing and formatting
spreadsheets and charts; and simple formulas.
A student needs to enroll in CIOS 135 with a test score less than 70% (21/30).
PART F:
Internet Basic Quiz:
The Part F exam covers the following topics: features of the Internet; email; web browsers; and searching the Internet for information.
A student needs to enroll in CIOS 146A with a test score less than 70% (21/30).
For more information on these programs, contact:
Susie Feero
CIOS Program
UAS Sitka Campus
907-747-7725 or 1-800-478-6653, ext. 725
e-mail:
Susie.Feero@uas.alaska.edu
CIOS Placements
Student scores result in placement in one or more of the following courses:
CIOS 100: Computers for Absolute Beginners (1 credit)
Introduces the computer novice to the basic components of a microcomputer and common software applications.
CIOS 110: Microcomputer Operating System (3 credits)
Offers an in-depth look at computer's operating system. May be offered in two parts ( CIOS S110A and CIOS S110B). Part A covers how to use the major features of the operating system. Topics include window manipulation, file and hard disk management, and data backup. Part B raises the user level to a "Power User." Topics include installation and customization of the operating system, disk maintenance, customizing the desktop work environment, adding and removing hardware and programs, and advanced file management. Course may be repeated using a different operating system. Prerequisite: CIOS 100 or Computer Placement Test.
CIOS 111: Microcomputer Concepts (2 credits)
Offers an indepth look at computers, how they operate, how they are connected, and how to protect them. Topics include the four parts of a computer system (input, processing, output, and storage), communications and networks, applications software, the Internet and World Wide Web, operating systems and system software, data management and databases, the system development life cycle, computer security, privacy and ethics, and multimedia. Prerequisite: CIOS 100 or Computer Placement Test.
CIOS 160: Business English (3 credits)
Applies the principles of English grammar, style, and usage to business correspondence. Topics include capitalization, numbers, abbreviations, word division, forms of address, and techniques and procedures for editing and proofreading, particularly as applied to electronic documents. Also included are elementary computer word processing and use of electronic mail.
CIOS 260: Business Communications (3 credits)
Applies techniques of written and oral communications to business situations requiring problem solving and an understanding of human relations. Topics include written communications (letters, memorandums, and reports), oral communications (one-on-one and small group interactions and oral presentations), listening skills, nonverbal communication, and communication and technology. Prerequisites: CIOS S101C and either CIOS S160 or CIOS English Placement Test.
CIOS 115: Electronic Calculator (1 credit)
Builds speed and accuracy on the 10-key pad of an electronic calculator and develops proficiency in using the various functions of the calculator to solve business problems. Prerequisite: CIOS Math Placement Test.
CIOS 116: Business Mathematics (3 credits)
Helps students improve proficiency with basic math skills and apply mathematical concepts (fractions, decimals, and percentages) to business situations. Covers payroll, taxes, insurance, simple interest, compound interest, installment purchasing, annuities, depreciation, financial statements and ratio analysis, stocks, bonds and profit distribution, and business statistics. NOTE: This course will not transfer or substitute for BA 162. Prerequisite: CIOS Math Placement Test.
Please see Catalog 2001-2002 CIOS course descriptions for a full listing of courses that require the above courses or CIOS Placement Test as prerequisites.
Back to the top
